Advancing AI Literacy Lessons

Social Media, You, and A.I.

Technology Applications | 6-12
Duration: 70 minutes
Author: Cordney Smith, CTE Teacher

This lesson guides students to critically examine the role of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) in shaping their daily social media experiences. Through a reflective hook, collaborative group work, and structured class discussion, students will explore how algorithms and engagement metrics influence the content they see, the choices they make, and the perspectives they encounter online. By analyzing both the benefits and drawbacks of A.I.-driven content curation, students will develop media literacy skills and evaluate their own digital habits. The goal of the lesson is to empower students to become more conscious, critical, and responsible digital citizens who understand the hidden mechanisms behind platforms they use every day.

Lesson Objectives

Define key terms related to social media and A.I. (e.g., algorithm, content, duration, and engagement) to establish a foundational understanding of how digital platforms operate.
Compare and contrast the positive and negative effects of A.I. on social media, focusing on personalization, community building, data privacy, and the creation of echo chambers.
Analyze personal social media habits to identify patterns of A.I.-driven influence on content exposure, behavior, and perception.
Evaluate the ethical implications of A.I. in social media, considering issues such as bias, misinformation, and user autonomy.
Reflect on individual digital citizenship and propose strategies for more intentional and responsible engagement with A.I.-curated content.

Essential Questions

In what ways does A.I. influence the content we see and the choices we make on social media platforms?
How can users critically evaluate the role of algorithms in shaping their digital experiences?
What responsibilities do individuals have when engaging with A.I.-curated content online?
How might A.I.-driven personalization both support and limit diverse perspectives in social media spaces?
What strategies can help users become more intentional and informed digital citizens in A.I.-shaped environments?